International applicants

There are lots of things to consider when thinking about applying to a university or college in the UK.

You can search for undergraduate courses in the UK on Discover Uni. Each course page will provide information about that course, including links to their own website and their contact details. Our how to choose a course section provides information to help you find a course that is right for you.

You will usually need to apply for your chosen course through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). You can apply for up to five different courses (at any university or college). Details of the application process and deadlines for courses starting in 2025 can be found on the UCAS website.

If you miss a deadline, you can still apply for a course through a system called 'Clearing'.  There’s information in our downloadable guide and UCAS has details about Clearing on its website.

Once you have applied, you will receive updates on your application through UCAS Track. Track will help you to see and reply to offers you have been given.

If you want to study part time, or want to apply for a distanced learning course, you may need to apply to your chosen university or college directly. You will be able to find out more information on their websites, or you can contact them to discuss in more detail.

There are a limited number of scholarships available to international students studying undergraduate courses. In most cases you will need to have received an offer of a place from a university or college before you can apply for a scholarship.

See the StudyUK website for further information.

Once you have been offered a place on a course in the UK, you will need to apply for a student visa to ensure that you are able to travel to and live in the UK for the duration of your course. 

The student route is a points-based visa system for all international students, including EU, EEA and Swiss students, who want to study in the UK. All international students on degree courses need to apply through the student route, including those from Europe coming to the UK to begin a course.

You will be asked to evidence certain requirements in order to obtain a student visa when you first come to the UK. Official guidance on the student visa, including details of the above requirements and how to apply can be found on the UK Government’s website. You may also find the visa information on the UKCISA website useful.

Moving to a new country is exciting, but there’s a lot to think about too.

• Make sure that you have arranged suitable accommodation for the duration of your time in the UK. Your university or college will be able to help you with this.
• When you get to the UK, you will need to open a bank account to have access to money in the UK. UKCISA provides details of how to open a bank account as an international student.
• Remember that your university or college should be your first port of call with queries about your course, accommodation, or immigration status. They will be happy to answer any queries you may have.

Below are some additional resources:

• UK council for international student affairs (UKCISA) – has lots of information and advice for international students.
• UCAS website – has lots of information and offers you the chance to talk to international students currently studying in the UK.